“We’re not going to appeal the court’s decision,” affirms Kevin Knedler, the executive director of the Libertarian Party of Ohio. “Respect it, don’t like it. Respect it. We’re not going to tie this thing up and confuse the voters two weeks before the election. That doesn’t mean we’re packing up our tents and going home.”
So now Steven Linnabary, who had been the Libertarian candidate for attorney general, has endorsed the Democrat in that race, David Pepper.
Knedler says he’s fine with his colleagues endorsement of a major party candidate in the AG’s race.
“I would have a problem if there was a Libertarian running in the race, but there are none because of the court actions. And I’m fine with that. Steve’s a good fella – he should be able to speak his mind and endorse who he wants.”
The Libertarian candidates were removed from the ballot in March by Republican Secretary of State Jon Husted, who said their paid signature gatherers broke the law by not disclosing who employed them.
Federal judge Michael Watson said the Libertarians failed to prove that the removal of their candidates was unconstitutional. Knedler is on the ballot, though, as the Libertarian candidate for Secretary of State, and Bob Bridges is a Libertarian running for state auditor.
Knedler says the fight to be recognized as an established third party in Ohio has gone on for a decade.